Leaving a legacy of Conservation

Friedl Pomrenk, taken earlier this summer before he passed at the age of 106 years.

Friedl Pomrenk was a rather remarkable man. Not only did he live to reach the age of a 106 — he also ensured the legacy of his family farm — which dates back to 1903, two-years before Alberta became a province. This unique habitat will now live on as a significant conservation site for all Albertans to enjoy.

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The 160-acre parcel of land was donated to the Alberta Fish and Game Association's Wildlife Trust Fund, so that this property — the original Pomrenk homestead — will be conserved in perpetuity. The land contains numerous essential wildlife habitats and the agricultural portion will be gradually naturalized to provide even more habitat for area wildlife. Sadly, Mr. Pomrenk passed away recently, but he passed knowing that his property is conserved for future generations.

This past August, family and friends, along with representatives from the Alberta Fish and Game and Alberta Conservation Associations gathering at the property to celebrate the life of Friedl and to dedicate this vital property to future wildlife and generations of conservationists.

Combined, the Alberta Conservation Association, the Alberta Fish and Game Association, Ducks Unlimited Canada and other conservation groups currently own or manage 776 conservation sites located across Alberta.

This new donation will be jointly managed by the AFGA and the Alberta Conservation Association and highlights the cooperation needed to secure land deals like this.

There is no question this is a fantastic piece of property and represents what the Land Trust program is all about.

If you would like to plan a visit to this land parcel, the land location is NW 4-51-12 W4

On August 16 the family, friends and wildlife and conservation officials gathered on the Friedl Pomrenk homestead to welcome its new purpose as a wildlife refuge and will now be open to the public for the purpose of a conservation site for naturists and hunters to access. (photo credit: Hiway 16 News, issue 33)

Editors note: Thanks to T.J. Schwanky for providing the drone footage of the Pomrenk property.